I’m looking forward to the upcoming spring holidays, for some relaxing days off work and for spending time with a group of university friends from Mexico city, who are coming for a visit. When I asked if they had any activities they would love to do while visiting Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, they replied they would love to go surfing! I am not surprised that surfing is on top of their wish list, as Ixtapa Zihuatanejo area has been known for surfing since the 60-ies! And while some of my friends are avid surfers, for the others learning to surf is a long-yearned wish. I rolled up my sleeves, did some exploring, and created a selection of surf spots that I think would be great to visit.

If you are planning your sunny getaway to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo soon, and are looking for some surf spots, perhaps you would find this list useful as well.

Las Escolleras surf spot, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

Surfing Ixtapa Zihuatanejo:

Playa Linda is located just North of Ixtapa, at the mouth of Ixtapa River. This beach is more than 1 km (0.65 miles) long and it is the host to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo’s annual surfing tournament. This beach is very close to Capella Ixtapa, so my colleagues love heading here for a surf session before or after work. It has a river-mouth, which creates waves that break in both left and right directions with a long, smooth wall and in some parts a bit stronger. It breaks year round.

Playa Las Escolleras is one of the most popular surfing spots in the area, you can access it at Playa El Palmar, by the rocks dividing the marina from the beach. This beach is particularly popular with locals. It has a strong right beach break at a breakwater of rocks with a sandy bottom. It breaks 3/4 of the year.

Playa Troncones is located about 15 miles north of Zihuatanejo. It has strong waves with occasional tubes. The north point is a left break on reef, sometimes with tubes followed by a smooth wall. It breaks all year round. In addition to be a great surf spot, I love visiting Troncones village for it’s laid back atmosphere and colorful streets, sea caves and waterfall (read more about it here).

La Barrita, a rocky beach 10 minutes southeast of Barra de Potosí. Not many tourists stop at this village, but this and Loma Bonita beach are some of the best local spots for surfing. It has a strong wave with tube in season. It breaks 3/4 of the year. I suggest making this a day trip and visiting Barra de Potosí and Petatlan town and its gold market as well.

La Saladita beach has a long and smooth left point-break that breaks all year, albeit very small in the winter but still perfect for a long board. It is located about 20 miles north of Zihuatanejo, entering through a village of Los Llanos. My colleagues have recommended this beach, and I’m looking forward to visiting soon.

Petatalco surf spot is probably the largest break in the region. It is a very powerful beach break with perfect gigantic tubes. This was one of the most famous waves during the 70’s, and it still has many very good days. I am intrigued by the reputation and history of this beach, and can’t wait to experience it in person!

These are just some of the surf spots in the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo area. For more recommendations please leave a comment below or send an email to our Personal Assistant, who will be happy to advise you on the surf spot based on your wishes and desires.